DGUV Regulation 1 “Principles of prevention”

Key provisions: safety instruction at least once a year (Section 4), written delegation of duties (Section 13), safety representatives (Section 20 – since May 2026 the threshold in Section 22 SGB VII applies), first aid with first aiders, supplies and documentation in the first aid log (Sections 24–28) and provision and use of PPE (Sections 29–31). Employees must follow instructions and report defects (Sections 15–18).

The regulation applies to all companies insured with a Berufsgenossenschaft or accident insurance fund – in other words, practically everywhere. The accompanying DGUV Rule 100-001 explains how to implement it.

This glossary entry gives a general overview of German occupational safety law and does not replace legal advice. The regulations in force and the rules of the statutory accident insurance institutions are authoritative.